MATHEMATICAL MODELING OF SHORELINE EVOLUTION

Bernard Le Mahaute, Mills Soldate

Abstract

A mathematical model for long term shoreline evolution is developed. The combined effects of variations of sea level, wave refraction, wave diffraction, loss of sand by density currents during storms, by rip currents and by wind, bluff erosion and berm accretion as well as effects of man-made structures such as long groin or navigational structures and beach nourishment are all taken into account. A computer program is devloped with various subroutines which permit modification as the state-of-the-art progresses. The program is applied to a test case at Holland Harbor, Michigan.